Predictors of Health Promoting Lifestyle Among Midwives Employed in Hospitals and Health Centres of Qazvin, Iran

Abstract

Abstract<br />Background and aims: Midwives experience a high level of stress due to heavy workloads, which has<br />been shown to have adverse effects on well-being. Accordingly, the main goal of this study was to<br />assess the predictors associated with a healthy lifestyle in a sample of midwives working in hospitals<br />and health centers of Qazvin, Iran.<br />Methods: A total of 200 midwives were recruited using convenience sampling method. Each subject<br />completed a demographic questionnaire, the Farsi version of the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile<br />Questionnaire, and Perceived Social Support Questionnaire. A multivariate linear regression model<br />was used to assess the predictors of health promoting lifestyle (HPL).<br />Results: Spiritual growth (2.78 ± 0.53) and nutrition (2.79 ± 0.45) had the highest scores among HPL<br />subscales. Conversely, subjects had the lowest score in physical activity (2.02 ± 0.64). Multivariate<br />regression analyses showed that workplace (β = -0.19, P = 0.03), involving in professional sports<br />(β = 0.2, P = 0.01), and perception of an adequate social support network (β = 0.47, P < 0.001) were the<br />strongest predictors of HPL. These predictors accounted for 27% of the variance in the model.<br />Conclusion: Considering the predictive role of three variables including workplace, involving in<br />professional sport, and having adequate social support, HPL interventions can be designed and<br />implemented. Improving working conditions, strengthening social support networks, and increasing<br />physical activity might be beneficial measures to improve midwives' HPL.